Refugees 

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen’s somber drawing depicts a woman and child, refugees of war perhaps, cloaked in heavy garments that conceal and protect. These cloaks, evoking both anonymity and a form of mourning, remind me of similar garments in medieval depictions of grief or pilgrimage. We see echoes of the Madonna, sheltering those under her mantle, a symbol of comfort and solace. This archetype transcends religious boundaries, reappearing across cultures as a symbol of protection during upheaval. Consider the emotional weight of such a covering—it’s a physical manifestation of despair and vulnerability. Yet, within its folds lies a primal need for safety, harking back to the most basic human desires. Steinlen captures this tension, reminding us of the cyclical, enduring nature of human suffering. Through his charcoal, he etches not just figures, but echoes of history.